On 20 November, ESA placed contracts with ArianeGroup to continue the demonstration of the Prometheus engine and reusable rocket stage demonstrator Themis. The contract riders, representing approximately €230 million in total, were by signed ESA’s Director of Space Transportation, Toni-Tolker Nielsen, and Philippe Clar, Head of Civil Space Programs at ArianeGroup.
“European cooperation is ArianeGroup’s core DNA and these new steps in the development of reuse technologies in Europe are boosting the motivation of our teams and our partners”, said Philippe Clar, the new Head of Civil Programs at ArianeGroup. “Signing these two contracts so soon after taking up the job is exciting and I wish to thank the European Space Agency for its confidence and its commitment.”
The signed agreements concentrate on the realisation of demonstrators for reusable rocket stages and low-cost engines. By prioritising reusability, ESA aims to lower the costs associated with space access and enhance the flexibility of launch services. These advancements are expected to support European competitiveness in the rapidly evolving space sector.
Prometheus
The Prometheus engine project focuses on demonstrating a low-cost, reusable propulsion system, which allows for in-flight restarting and reuse on multiple flights. Prometheus uses liquid methane at –162°C as a fuel instead of hydrogen, as used by Vulcain 2.1. Methane is denser and easier to handle than hydrogen, which eases reignition, reduces engine and launcher design costs.
The contract rider for Prometheus supports the demonstration of an enhanced model using industrial, cost-effective manufacturing processes and to evaluate engine maintenance and reusability. The contract involves modifying the “PF50” test stand in Vernon, France, which is used to test Vulcain engines, to supply methane fuel for additional firing tests of the Prometheus engine.
ArianeGroup in Vernon, France is leading a pan-European team of subcontractors working on Prometheus. The contractors are located in Germany, Sweden, Belgium, Netherlands and Switzerland.
Themis
The Prometheus model will be incorporated into T1E, or Themis one-engine Evolution, a Themis rocket first stage demonstrator. The upgraded flight demonstrator includes enhanced subsystems, structural components and propellant tanks, allowing it to reach greater altitude and extend flight duration during tests at the Esrange launch facility near Kiruna, Sweden.
ArianeGroup is leading a pan-European team of subcontractors working on Themis. The contractors are located in France, Belgium, Spain, Switzerland and Sweden.
Advancing European Innovation and Competitiveness
ESA’s Director of Space Transportation, Toni-Tolker Nielsen, said: “These two contract riders are a significant investment that will take Europe further to having a low-cost re-useable rocket, that will have far-reaching benefits for people in our Member States, including creating highly skilled competencies in Europe.”
The contract riders exemplify ESA’s commitment to fostering innovation and maintaining Europe’s competitiveness in the global launch market. The contracts enhance European industry expertise and support ESA’s strategy for independent, reliable space access. By backing reusable rocket technologies, ESA aims for a sustainable, resilient and competitive European space transportation future.
